Sayuri Bayona Appointed as Peru’s New Vice Minister of Foreign Trade

The Peruvian Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism (Mincetur) has appointed Sayuri Bayona Matsuda as the new Vice Minister of Foreign Trade, according to Supreme Resolution 006-2026-Mincetur. Bayona replaces César Llona, who held the position since November 2025.

A Strategic Shift in Trade Leadership

The appointment of Sayuri Bayona Matsuda marks a return to the ministry for a career official with over 12 years of specialized experience. Her professional history includes a previous stint as Vice Minister of Foreign Trade from late 2018 through 2020.

According to reporting by El Comercio, Bayona’s portfolio is extensive, spanning the implementation of trade agreements with the United States, the European Union, Canada, and the EFTA nations.

Negotiation Expertise and Future Market Integration

Bayona brings a technical background to the role, having served as a lead negotiator during the transition to a bilateral trade agreement with the United Kingdom. Her experience also extends to the Union Economic Euroasiatic and the CPTPP—formerly the TPP—where she served as deputy lead negotiator between 2011 and 2013.

Addressing the Fiscal-Trade Nexus

Recent commentary from the Central Reserve Bank of Peru (BCR) highlighted that the government’s fiscal response to market pressures has been significantly lower than the intensity of the economic shocks observed.

As noted by the National Society of Mining, Petroleum and Energy (SNMPE), the reactivation of mechanisms such as the Fuel Price Stabilization Fund (FEPC) remains contingent upon the state compensating debts owed to private firms.

Operational Continuity for Foreign Investors

Bayona’s career trajectory—which includes leading the Directorate of North America and Europe—positions her to maintain existing diplomatic and commercial channels. Her role as a coordinator for the Peru-Korea Free Trade Agreement further underscores an emphasis on Pacific Rim relations.